Press n Peel Test 17

Test Summary
For this test, we added two additional values to the “Curves” Adjustment in Photoshop in hopes of providing more variation in tonal range. The reduced scaling of the aquatint screen provided a smoother, sharper image, but as was seen, the range of mid-tones was fairly stagnant. In “Curves,” our current setting remained at two values: blacks and whites. We increased the variability of the curve with additional points to accommodate gray-whites and gray-blacks.

Curves: We had the same black and white values from the previous test: Black=45 White=225. The change here was the addition of two new point along the scale: Output 62/Input 64 (the gray-black) and Output 171/Input 175 (the gray-white).

A grayscale from white to black was adjusted with the same above parameters to provide a clear, visual representation of our tonal range when subjected to such adjustments. It was printed alongside our original image (see below).

Etching Notes
Ferric Chloride 41 degrees Baume

Timed Application of Mordant
30 minutes

Removal of Grounds
Ground removed with Soy Solv Industrial Cleaner and rag and a toothbrush.

Test Conclusion
Successful trial. Texture and detail much smoother and sharper. Blacks are nice and rich, and whites are present in areas where there are stark highlights. However, the mid-tones still do not have much variation, and greater alterations appear to be needed in the “Curves” adjustment section of Photoshop. Additionally, the tacking iron proves most successful in getting a better transfer with minimal bubbling and flatter surface.

Printed Images

Clockwise from top left: Pairing of film positive and etched plate of image; pairing of film positive and etched plate of grayscale; final printed images